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Free Agency Update

Top 100 Free Agency Forecast

Rotoworld Football will have you covered and then some during the forthcoming NFL free-agency period. After a buzz-filled negotiating weekend, more buzz and salary cap casualties will be the theme of Monday. On Tuesday at 4PM ET, signings will begin.

Nick Mensio will churn out daily free-agent recaps. Adam Levitan will expose winners and losers. Along with Mensio, Levitan, and Matt Stafford apologist Pat Daugherty, I'll be constantly updating our Player News Page every day for the next week.

We're not planning on getting much sleep.

This is my ranking of the NFL's Top 100 Free Agents with projected landing spots. I'm trying to read tea leaves and guessing. If I nail 30, I'll feel pretty good. The objective of this column is to give you a feel for the best players available, where they might fit, and how much money they might cost. You're getting familiar with names, potential price tags, and possibilities.

The rankings do not include restricted free agents like Victor Cruz because they almost never go anywhere and aren't worth discussion.

Let's go.

1. Defensive end Cliff Avril -- Avril may not be the best all-around football player in 2013 free agency, but he'll likely get paid the most. He's the premier pass rusher available in a league that covets quarterback harassment. Avril played linebacker at Purdue and left end in Detroit, so scheme versatility makes him even more attractive. The Browns, Colts, Dolphins, and Bucs are all flush with salary cap space and in need of outside-edge rush help. Avril turns 27 years old in April.

Free Agent Forecast: Colts on a five-year, $64 million contract.

2. Cornerback Aqib Talib -- One of the league's better bump-and-run corners, 27-year-old Talib has experience covering No. 1 receivers and more often than not shuts them down. He's good enough to be left on an island. A worrisome off-field history will affect Talib's value, however, and he seems unlikely to command as high-dollar a contract as Sean Smith. If interest in Talib is lukewarm on the open market, the Patriots would love to have him back at a reasonable price.

Free Agent Forecast: Patriots on a four-year, $27.5 million contract.

3. Outside linebacker Paul Kruger -- Kruger managed 1.5 sacks ahead of Terrell Suggs' 2012 return from Achilles' surgery, before closing out the season with 7.5 sacks across the final eight games with Suggs in the lineup. The statistics suggest Kruger is more complementary than franchise pass rusher. He's still an impact defender and sure to get overpaid. 27-year-old Kruger would give Cleveland credibility at rush linebacker opposite Jabaal Sheard in Ray Horton's 3-4.

Free Agent Forecast: Browns on a five-year, $60 million contract.

4. Wide receiver Mike Wallace -- Wallace is coming off his worst season after missing training camp due to a contract holdout. Fortunately for Wallace, the receiver market couldn't be playing out better. Dwayne Bowe's five-year, $56 million deal will be a baseline in negotiations, and leaves Wallace as easily the best wideout available. He'll get more than Bowe. The Dolphins covet Wallace's vertical speed to book end Brian Hartline, and have ample money to land him.

Free Agent Forecast: Dolphins on a five-year, $60 million contract.

5. Free safety Dashon Goldson -- Goldson wants Eric Weddle money -- $8 million per year -- and he's earned it while emerging as the league's premier cover safety. The 49ers never gave serious consideration to franchise tagging Goldson, and appear to have washed their hands. Philadelphia has cap space to pay Goldson, and new VP of Player Personnel Tom Gamble was in San Francisco's front office during Goldson's development. He'd fill a gaping need at free safety.

Free Agent Forecast: Eagles on a five-year, $40.5 million contract.

6. Tight end Tony Gonzalez -- If Gonzalez does play one more season -- and it seems likely he will -- it's going to be with the Falcons. Gonzalez, 37, played last season for $7 million. A similar payment and one last chance at a Super Bowl should lure Gonzalez away from retirement.

Free Agent Forecast: Falcons on a one-year, $7.25 million contract.

7. Offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer -- 6-foot-8, 315-pound Vollmer is one of the NFL's leanest, most athletic offensive tackles and has developed into an elite pass blocker. He's also a critical piece in New England's power-zone running scheme. Durability is a concern, however, as Vollmer has a history of back woes and is currently recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery. If Vollmer's market underwhelms due to his medicals, the Patriots will be waiting with open arms.

Free Agent Forecast: Patriots on a five-year, $30 million contract.

8. Cornerback Sean Smith -- At 6-foot-3 and 214 pounds, Smith is one of the NFL's biggest cornerbacks and plays like it, struggling to cover smaller, shiftier wideouts but giving bigger ones like Larry Fitzgerald and A.J. Green fits. Going on age 26, Smith's arrow is still pointing up. The corner-needy Buccaneers value Smith's physical style of press-man play.

Free Agency Forecast Buccaneers on a four-year, $30 million contract.

9. Wide receiver Wes Welker -- Welker will test the open market on Tuesday, but the most likely outcome is re-signing with New England at a team-friendly rate. Though video-game productive, Welker is a scheme-specific slot receiver and extension of the run game, as opposed to a flier who rips the top off of defenses. He's more valuable to the Patriots than anyone else.

Free Agent Forecast: Patriots on a three-year, $22 million contract.

10. Right tackle Andre Smith -- A long-armed mauler, Smith's game has quietly reached elite heights the past two years, particularly in pass protection. He was arguably the NFL's premier right tackle in 2012. Having just turned 26, Smith hasn't reached his prime and seems to have put college and early-career weight fluctuations behind him. Cincinnati is brimming with salary cap space. It'd be a disservice to the fanbase if Bengals owner Mike Brown didn't pony up for Smith.

Free Agency Forecast: Bengals on a four-year, $31 million contract.

11. Running back Steven Jackson -- The Rams are searching for more big-play ability in their backfield and are unlikely to re-sign Jackson. The Falcons, Packers, and Broncos are all sensible suitors for a running back going on 30 who intends to finish his career on a contender. Jackson is the league's active leader in rushing attempts, but remains a chain-moving runner with burst and is terrific in the passing game. Atlanta has been his most heavily rumored landing spot.

Free Agent Forecast: Falcons on a three-year, $12 million contract.

12. Offensive tackle Jake Long -- If Long hits free agency seeking Joe Thomas money as has been rumored, he's going to be sorely disappointed. NFL teams are wary of Long's checkered injury history, two-year performance decline, and diminishing athleticism going on age 28. Some even believe he's no longer a capable left tackle and needs to move to the right side. The Fins are willing to pay Long like a top-12 left tackle and remain his likeliest suitor. Look for Long to sit on the market for about two days before realizing staying in Miami is in his best interest.

Free Agent Forecast: Dolphins on a five-year, $38 million contract.

13. Cornerback Brent Grimes -- Grimes would rank much higher if not for last year's Achilles' tear. In the two seasons prior, he had emerged as a borderline shutdown corner. While reports on Grimes' recovery have been positive, teams will be very leery of making a high-dollar commitment to a cornerback coming off a major injury and going on 30. The Falcons still have the best information on Grimes, and Dunta Robinson's release hints at confidence he'll be re-signed.

Free Agent Forecast: Falcons on a one-year, $5 million contract.

14. Defensive end Michael Bennett -- Justin Tuckian with versatility to defeat blocking schemes from both defensive tackle and left end, Bennett's market value got a boost when the Bengals franchise tagged Michael Johnson. Bennett, 27, is the No. 2 defensive end available behind Cliff Avril. Coming off career highs in tackles (41), sacks (9), and forced fumbles (3), Bennett was also an integral piece of Tampa's No. 1-ranked run defense. The Bucs surprisingly don't value Bennett highly, but the cross-state Jaguars would love to add him to their line.

Free Agent Forecast: Jaguars on a five-year, $27.5 million contract.

15. Defensive tackle Desmond Bryant -- Bryant is long and athletic at 6-foot-6, 300 with a relentless motor and versatile tools. He's been an effective starter both at three-technique tackle and right end. Pass rusher and run stuffer alike, Bryant might be this year's most underrated free agent. He's the defender the Seahawks wanted when they signed Jason Jones last March.

Free Agent Forecast: Seahawks on a five-year, $20 million contract.

Rotoworld Football will have you covered and then some during the forthcoming NFL free-agency period. After a buzz-filled negotiating weekend, more buzz and salary cap casualties will be the theme of Monday. On Tuesday at 4PM ET, signings will begin.

Nick Mensio will churn out daily free-agent recaps. Adam Levitan will expose winners and losers. Along with Mensio, Levitan, and Matt Stafford apologist Pat Daugherty, I'll be constantly updating our Player News Page every day for the next week.

We're not planning on getting much sleep.

This is my ranking of the NFL's Top 100 Free Agents with projected landing spots. I'm trying to read tea leaves and guessing. If I nail 30, I'll feel pretty good. The objective of this column is to give you a feel for the best players available, where they might fit, and how much money they might cost. You're getting familiar with names, potential price tags, and possibilities.

The rankings do not include restricted free agents like Victor Cruz because they almost never go anywhere and aren't worth discussion.

Let's go.

1. Defensive end Cliff Avril -- Avril may not be the best all-around football player in 2013 free agency, but he'll likely get paid the most. He's the premier pass rusher available in a league that covets quarterback harassment. Avril played linebacker at Purdue and left end in Detroit, so scheme versatility makes him even more attractive. The Browns, Colts, Dolphins, and Bucs are all flush with salary cap space and in need of outside-edge rush help. Avril turns 27 years old in April.

Free Agent Forecast: Colts on a five-year, $64 million contract.

2. Cornerback Aqib Talib -- One of the league's better bump-and-run corners, 27-year-old Talib has experience covering No. 1 receivers and more often than not shuts them down. He's good enough to be left on an island. A worrisome off-field history will affect Talib's value, however, and he seems unlikely to command as high-dollar a contract as Sean Smith. If interest in Talib is lukewarm on the open market, the Patriots would love to have him back at a reasonable price.

Free Agent Forecast: Patriots on a four-year, $27.5 million contract.

3. Outside linebacker Paul Kruger -- Kruger managed 1.5 sacks ahead of Terrell Suggs' 2012 return from Achilles' surgery, before closing out the season with 7.5 sacks across the final eight games with Suggs in the lineup. The statistics suggest Kruger is more complementary than franchise pass rusher. He's still an impact defender and sure to get overpaid. 27-year-old Kruger would give Cleveland credibility at rush linebacker opposite Jabaal Sheard in Ray Horton's 3-4.

Free Agent Forecast: Browns on a five-year, $60 million contract.

4. Wide receiver Mike Wallace -- Wallace is coming off his worst season after missing training camp due to a contract holdout. Fortunately for Wallace, the receiver market couldn't be playing out better. Dwayne Bowe's five-year, $56 million deal will be a baseline in negotiations, and leaves Wallace as easily the best wideout available. He'll get more than Bowe. The Dolphins covet Wallace's vertical speed to book end Brian Hartline, and have ample money to land him.

Free Agent Forecast: Dolphins on a five-year, $60 million contract.

5. Free safety Dashon Goldson -- Goldson wants Eric Weddle money -- $8 million per year -- and he's earned it while emerging as the league's premier cover safety. The 49ers never gave serious consideration to franchise tagging Goldson, and appear to have washed their hands. Philadelphia has cap space to pay Goldson, and new VP of Player Personnel Tom Gamble was in San Francisco's front office during Goldson's development. He'd fill a gaping need at free safety.

Free Agent Forecast: Eagles on a five-year, $40.5 million contract.

6. Tight end Tony Gonzalez -- If Gonzalez does play one more season -- and it seems likely he will -- it's going to be with the Falcons. Gonzalez, 37, played last season for $7 million. A similar payment and one last chance at a Super Bowl should lure Gonzalez away from retirement.

Free Agent Forecast: Falcons on a one-year, $7.25 million contract.

7. Offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer -- 6-foot-8, 315-pound Vollmer is one of the NFL's leanest, most athletic offensive tackles and has developed into an elite pass blocker. He's also a critical piece in New England's power-zone running scheme. Durability is a concern, however, as Vollmer has a history of back woes and is currently recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery. If Vollmer's market underwhelms due to his medicals, the Patriots will be waiting with open arms.

Free Agent Forecast: Patriots on a five-year, $30 million contract.

8. Cornerback Sean Smith -- At 6-foot-3 and 214 pounds, Smith is one of the NFL's biggest cornerbacks and plays like it, struggling to cover smaller, shiftier wideouts but giving bigger ones like Larry Fitzgerald and A.J. Green fits. Going on age 26, Smith's arrow is still pointing up. The corner-needy Buccaneers value Smith's physical style of press-man play.

Free Agency Forecast Buccaneers on a four-year, $30 million contract.

9. Wide receiver Wes Welker -- Welker will test the open market on Tuesday, but the most likely outcome is re-signing with New England at a team-friendly rate. Though video-game productive, Welker is a scheme-specific slot receiver and extension of the run game, as opposed to a flier who rips the top off of defenses. He's more valuable to the Patriots than anyone else.

Free Agent Forecast: Patriots on a three-year, $22 million contract.

10. Right tackle Andre Smith -- A long-armed mauler, Smith's game has quietly reached elite heights the past two years, particularly in pass protection. He was arguably the NFL's premier right tackle in 2012. Having just turned 26, Smith hasn't reached his prime and seems to have put college and early-career weight fluctuations behind him. Cincinnati is brimming with salary cap space. It'd be a disservice to the fanbase if Bengals owner Mike Brown didn't pony up for Smith.

Free Agency Forecast: Bengals on a four-year, $31 million contract.

11. Running back Steven Jackson -- The Rams are searching for more big-play ability in their backfield and are unlikely to re-sign Jackson. The Falcons, Packers, and Broncos are all sensible suitors for a running back going on 30 who intends to finish his career on a contender. Jackson is the league's active leader in rushing attempts, but remains a chain-moving runner with burst and is terrific in the passing game. Atlanta has been his most heavily rumored landing spot.

Free Agent Forecast: Falcons on a three-year, $12 million contract.

12. Offensive tackle Jake Long -- If Long hits free agency seeking Joe Thomas money as has been rumored, he's going to be sorely disappointed. NFL teams are wary of Long's checkered injury history, two-year performance decline, and diminishing athleticism going on age 28. Some even believe he's no longer a capable left tackle and needs to move to the right side. The Fins are willing to pay Long like a top-12 left tackle and remain his likeliest suitor. Look for Long to sit on the market for about two days before realizing staying in Miami is in his best interest.

Free Agent Forecast: Dolphins on a five-year, $38 million contract.

13. Cornerback Brent Grimes -- Grimes would rank much higher if not for last year's Achilles' tear. In the two seasons prior, he had emerged as a borderline shutdown corner. While reports on Grimes' recovery have been positive, teams will be very leery of making a high-dollar commitment to a cornerback coming off a major injury and going on 30. The Falcons still have the best information on Grimes, and Dunta Robinson's release hints at confidence he'll be re-signed.

Free Agent Forecast: Falcons on a one-year, $5 million contract.

14. Defensive end Michael Bennett -- Justin Tuckian with versatility to defeat blocking schemes from both defensive tackle and left end, Bennett's market value got a boost when the Bengals franchise tagged Michael Johnson. Bennett, 27, is the No. 2 defensive end available behind Cliff Avril. Coming off career highs in tackles (41), sacks (9), and forced fumbles (3), Bennett was also an integral piece of Tampa's No. 1-ranked run defense. The Bucs surprisingly don't value Bennett highly, but the cross-state Jaguars would love to add him to their line.

Free Agent Forecast: Jaguars on a five-year, $27.5 million contract.

15. Defensive tackle Desmond Bryant -- Bryant is long and athletic at 6-foot-6, 300 with a relentless motor and versatile tools. He's been an effective starter both at three-technique tackle and right end. Pass rusher and run stuffer alike, Bryant might be this year's most underrated free agent. He's the defender the Seahawks wanted when they signed Jason Jones last March.

Free Agent Forecast: Seahawks on a five-year, $20 million contract.

16. Guard Andy Levitre -- The top guard on the market -- just ahead of Louis Vasquez -- Levitre turns 27 in May after grading out as Pro Football Focus' No. 9 overall guard last season, and first in pass protection. As of March 1, the Bills hadn't even made Levitre a contract offer. The Titans are in good shape under the cap and annually desperate for interior offensive line help.

Free Agent Forecast: Titans on a six-year, $48 million contract.

17. Cornerback Keenan Lewis -- A physical, 6-foot, 208-pound zone cornerback, Lewis is coming off a breakout year in which he led the NFL in pass breakups. Pittsburgh can't afford him, and the division-rival Browns make sense as a landing spot. Cleveland is needy opposite Joe Haden, and new Browns defensive coordinator Ray Horton is Lewis' former position coach.

Free Agent Forecast: Browns on a five-year, $30 million contract.

18. Cornerback Derek Cox -- 26-year-old Cox would rank higher if not for injuries. Too often the victim of muscle-tissue ailments, Cox has missed 17 games the past three years. A talented man or zone defender when healthy, Cox does have 12 interceptions across four NFL seasons, flashing No. 1-corner skills in spurts. Old Jags coach Jack Del Rio now runs Denver's defense, but weekend buzz indicated Washington is a likelier suitor once DeAngelo Hall is cut.

Free Agent Forecast: Redskins on a four-year, $24 million contract.

19. Wide receiver Greg Jennings -- Jennings is the No. 2 wideout on the market but he'll struggle for big-money offers. Going on age 30 with 11 missed games the past two seasons, Jennings would do well to surpass Reggie Wayne's three-year, $17.5 million deal. He probably will, but not by much. Minnesota is desperate for an established, playmaking outside receiver.

Free Agent Forecast: Vikings on a four-year, $27 million contract.

20. Right tackle Phil Loadholt -- Vikings GM Rick Spielman realizes Loadholt's worth. Minnesota plays run-first offense, and Loadholt is a crucial puzzle piece as a 343-pound mauler. The sides have discussed an extension off and on since last fall. 27 and coming off a career-best season, Loadholt could command left-tackle money from a Vikings team that can't afford to lose him. Matt Kalil costs under $5 million a year, making "overpaying" Loadholt more feasible.

Free Agent Forecast: Vikings on a three-year, $24 million contract.

21. Defensive end John Abraham -- Abraham isn't an every-down player anymore, but there's plenty of juice left in his tank. He racked up ten sacks and six forced fumbles in 2012, and has missed only two games over the past six years. 35 in May, Abraham will be limited to short-term offers. Seattle, Tennessee, Tampa Bay, and San Francisco have all expressed interest.

Free Agent Forecast: Seahawks on a two-year, $12 million contract.

22. Defensive end Osi Umenyiora -- A younger if slightly less explosive version of John Abraham, Umenyiora has at least six sacks in eight straight seasons but is better suited as a situational rusher at this stage. He's coming off a six-sack, two-forced fumble campaign. At age 31, Umenyiora should command two- and three-year offers. In Nashville, he'd give beleaguered coordinator Jerry Gray a rotational end to help keep Derrick Morgan and Kamerion Wimbley fresh.

Free Agent Forecast: Titans on a three-year, $20 million contract.

23. Wide receiver Danny Amendola -- The Rams don't value Amendola at $6 million per year, which is probably his floor after Brian Hartline's deal. He's likely to leave St. Louis. Amendola would be a sensible Patriots fallback option if Wes Welker departs Foxboro. If not, Amendola has been linked to the Eagles as a more dynamic replacement for Jason Avant. Chip Kelly's offense spreads the field with four and five wideouts, and explosive slot receivers are a necessity.

Free Agent Forecast: Eagles on a three-year, $18.5 million contract.

24. Free safety Ed Reed -- Reed has clearly entered his decline phase going on age 35, but remains a playmaker on the ball after intercepting five passes and breaking up 17 across 20 games last season, including the playoffs. Colts head coach Chuck Pagano was on Baltimore's staff for four years with Reed, and Indianapolis has cap space to beat any other teams' offers.

Free Agent Forecast: Colts on a two-year, $10.5 million contract.

25. Guard Louis Vasquez -- Andy Levitre is this year's top free-agent guard, but Vasquez is younger and not far off. Vasquez has both coaching-staff and front-office ties in Indianapolis, and the Chargers can't compete with the Colts under the salary cap. Expect him to land in Indy.

Free Agent Forecast: Colts on a seven-year, $44 million contract.

26. Tight end Martellus Bennett -- 26-year-old Bennett gets the nod over Jared Cook as the top free-agent tight end behind Tony Gonzalez because "Black Unicorn" can block. Also a weapon via the pass, Bennett's receiving game reached new heights last season with career bests in catches (55), yards (626), and touchdowns (5). The Giants will face competition, but provide Bennett with his best opportunity at a true breakout year. They need to keep him.

Free Agent Forecast: Giants on a four-year, $22 million contract.

27. Tight end Jared Cook -- The Nashville Tennessean has estimated that Cook will draw offers worth $8 million annually, while the Miami Herald has suggested Cook's price tag could trend toward $10 million. That's awfully rich for a blocking-deficient tight end who's never reached 50 catches. The Eagles, Dolphins, Bears, Rams, and Titans have all been floated as potential suitors. Cook would add a new dimension to Marc Trestman's offense in Chicago.

Free Agent Forecast: Bears on a four-year, $32 million contract.

28. Tight end Dustin Keller -- More of a true seam stretcher than Martellus Bennett but much less of a blocker, Keller's value took a hit in 2012 when a hamstring injury cost him half of the season and limited his effectiveness when on the field. Keller is going on age 29 and is a one-dimensional tight end. He'll still be a coveted fallback option for clubs that miss out on Jared Cook. A reunion with old Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer makes sense on paper.

Free Agent Forecast: Rams on a four-year, $22 million contract.

29. Defensive end Dwight Freeney -- At age 33, Freeney is looking to finish his career with a contender. Regardless of whether the Broncos release Elvis Dumervil, they could use an additional edge presence to work in waves with Von Miller, Derek Wolfe, and Robert Ayers. Freeney ranks third in the group of late-career free-agent pass rushers that also includes John Abraham and Osi Umenyiora. He should be relatively cheap coming off a five-sack season.

Free Agent Forecast: Broncos on a two-year, $10 million contract.

30. Running back Reggie Bush -- Beyond Mike Wallace landing in Miami, Bush to the Lions has been one of free agency's worst-kept secrets. 28-year-old Bush could be Detroit's version of Darren Sproles, working in tandem with Mikel Leshoure and adding explosion to the backfield on passing downs. The Saints signed Sproles to a four-year, $14 million deal in 2011.

Free Agent Forecast: Lions on a four-year, $16 million contract.

31. Left tackle Sam Baker -- Baker is a middling left tackle, but helped his cause with a career-best 2012 season and is just effective enough in pass protection to be worth keeping on Matt Ryan's blindside, assuming the price is right. It will be. Turning 28 in May, Baker should command well south of Will Beatty's $37.5 million over five years. Baker isn't as good as Beatty.

Free Agent Forecast: Falcons on a six-year, $30 million contract.

32. Cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie -- Rodgers-Cromartie's lack of physicality has always had a limiting effect on his game, but he's a fluid, fast, 27-year-old with playmaking ability and room to get better. The Eagles seem to have moved on. Andy Reid traded for Rodgers-Cromartie in Philly and knows his potential. Experiencing a soft market thus far, "DRC" could be a cost-effective Chiefs signing, and allow Dunta Robinson to focus on free safety and the slot.

Free Agent Forecast: Chiefs on a five-year, $25 million contract.

33. Safety Louis Delmas -- The Lions made Delmas an offer on Friday, but he deemed it unacceptable and will shop his wares. Turning 26 in April, Delmas' checkered injury history could make him a value pickup for a safety-needy club. He's capable of playing both strong and free. New Rams defensive coordinator Tim Walton coached Detroit's secondary for the last four years.

Free Agent Forecast: Rams on a three-year, $15 million contract.

34. Defensive tackle Jason Jones -- Capable of playing both left and three-technique tackle at 6-foot-5 and 276 pounds, Jones was pursued by St. Louis last offseason before signing a one-year, $5 million deal in Seattle, with mixed results. He figures to be cheaper this time around. The Rams could still use Jones as a fifth defensive lineman behind Chris Long, Michael Brockers, Robert Quinn, and Kendall Langford. Jones played for coach Jeff Fisher in Tennessee.

Free Agent Forecast: Rams on a three-year, $12 million contract.

35. Cornerback Chris Houston -- Much better suited as a No. 2 than No. 1 cornerback, Houston nevertheless spent the past three years in the latter role with Detroit. Unfortunately for Houston, he's another middling option in a free-agent cornerback class full of No. 2s. Expect him to re-sign affordably with the Lions, and GM Martin Mayhew to target a future No. 1 in April's draft.

Free Agent Forecast: Lions on a two-year, $10 million contract.

36. Right tackle Gosder Cherilus -- Cherilus, 29, is coming off a strong season protecting Matthew Stafford in Detroit, but his medicals could be a big concern. Cherilus recently underwent Regenokine therapy aimed at solving chronic knee woes. The Lions are believed to have moved on from Cherilus. He could resurface elsewhere on a one-year deal, but won't break the bank. New Jaguars line coach George Yarno was Cherilus' position coach for four seasons in Detroit.

Free Agent Forecast: Jaguars on a one-year, $3 million contract.

37. Defensive tackle Terrance Knighton -- The Knighton-to-Denver connection almost seems too obvious to come true. The Broncos have zero long-term solutions at defensive tackle, and coordinator Jack Del Rio was Knighton's head coach in Jacksonville. Only 26 years old, Knighton could try to parlay a one-year deal into something lengthier in a familiar scheme.

Free Agent Forecast: Broncos on a one-year, $5 million contract.

38. Cornerback Chris Gamble -- The Broncos missed out on Dunta Robinson when he signed for three years with the Chiefs, but Gamble would be a better option. A year younger than Robinson and a far superior cover cornerback when healthy, Gamble also knows Broncos coach John Fox's defense from Carolina. He'd be the perfect addition to play opposite Champ Bailey.

Free Agent Forecast: Broncos on a three-year, $15 million contract.

UPDATE: Stunningly, Gamble's agent announced Monday that his client will be retiring at age 30. The Broncos could look to Derek Cox as another option to book end Bailey. Cox played for Broncos defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio in Jacksonville. Denver is also rumored to be interested in trading for Darrelle Revis.

39. Linebacker Daryl Smith -- Smith is coming off a lost season due to injury, but should have quality football left at age 31. He was one of the league's most underrated linebackers for many years before 2012. The Giants have repeatedly been floated as a potentially interested party. They could play Smith at SAM linebacker and move Mathias Kiwanuka back down to end.

Free Agent Forecast: Giants on a three-year, $10 million contract.

40. Cornerback Antoine Cason -- Although susceptible deep, 26-year-old Cason makes plays on the ball and offers impressive corner size at 6-foot-1, 195. Indianapolis is rich on cap space and in the market for a bookend across from Vontae Davis. Cason is young, should be relatively affordable, and fits defensive-minded coach Chuck Pagano's press coverage scheme. New Colts VP of Football Operations Jimmy Raye also knows Cason from their San Diego days.

Free Agent Forecast: Colts on a three-year, $16.5 million contract.

41. Safety Kenny Phillips -- A worrisome history of knee injuries figures to limit Phillips to one-year, prove-it offers. When healthy, the former 31st draft pick has flashed difference-making cover skills and sure-tackling ability. Healthy in 2011, Phillips racked up 82 tackles, 11 pass breakups, four interceptions, and a forced fumble for the Super Bowl champ Giants. New Carolina GM Dave Gettleman was on New York's staff at the time, and his Panthers are needy at safety.

Free Agent Forecast: Panthers on a one-year, $3.5 million contract.

42. Outside linebacker James Harrison -- Released by the Steelers on Saturday due to conflicting opinions of his worth, Harrison's body is breaking down as he approaches age 35. He's missed eight games over the past two seasons. Harrison can still rush the passer, though, with 15 sacks and four forced fumbles during that span. Losing Paul Kruger in free agency, the Ravens could pair Harrison with Courtney Upshaw in a rotation to replace Kruger opposite Terrell Suggs.

Free Agent Forecast: Ravens on a two-year, $8 million contract.

43. Left tackle Jermon Bushrod -- The Saints don't have much salary cap space at the moment, but the flood gates will open a bit when they release Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith, and (likely) Roman Harper early this week. Bushrod, 28, is their top free-agent priority. Expect the sides to hammer something out before Tuesday evening, at a rate lower than Will Beatty's deal.

Free Agent Forecast: Saints on a five-year, $27.5 million contract.

44. Outside linebacker Connor Barwin -- Barwin's market was quiet over the weekend, not surprisingly. After a fluky, 11.5-sack 2011 season, Barwin was exposed as "just a guy" with three sacks in 2012. He simply lacks explosive edge-rushing talent. The Texans want Barwin back and figure to re-sign him affordably. Doing so would allow them to kick Brooks Reed inside.

Free Agent Forecast: Texans on a one-year, $3.5 million contract.

45. Defensive lineman Israel Idonije A poor man's Michael Bennett, Idonjie holds his own as an early-down left end who rushes the quarterback his best from a three-technique position in the nickel. Idonjie's age (32) will keep him affordable enough to reunite with Rod Marinelli on the cap-strapped Cowboys. He'd be the No. 3 end behind Anthony Spencer and DeMarcus Ware.

Free Agent Forecast: Cowboys on a two-year, $4 million contract.

46. Running back Rashard Mendenhall -- Mendenhall annually underwhelmed behind poor offensive lines in Pittsburgh, but he's only 25, a full year removed from his ACL tear now, and offers versatility. The Dolphins are interested in Mendenhall as an upgrade on Daniel Thomas behind Lamar Miller. Mendenhall is young enough that pursuing one-year deals is his best bet.

Free Agent Forecast: Dolphins on a one-year, $3 million contract.

47. Cornerback Bradley Fletcher -- Though somewhat penalty prone, Fletcher is a put-together (6-foot, 200) cornerback with press-man cover skills. He played well in St. Louis last year before inexplicably falling into coach Jeff Fisher's doghouse. Fletcher had his best NFL season in 2010, recording 11 pass deflections, 75 tackles, and four interceptions as a 15-game starter. His position coach then was Clayton Lopez, who is now coaching the defensive backs in Oakland.

Free Agent Forecast: Raiders on a three-year, $9 million contract.

48. Defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey -- Miscast as a 3-4 end, Dorsey managed a pathetic four sacks across five seasons in Kansas City. Dorsey, 27, still has a shot to be an effective rotational defender, ideally in a 4-3 scheme. A one-year, prove-it deal could give Dorsey a chance to enhance his worth. Lions defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham was on the Chiefs' staff when Dorsey was drafted, and needs a third tackle behind Nick Fairley and Ndamukong Suh.

Free Agent Forecast: Lions on a one-year, $2 million contract.

49. Left tackle Bryant McKinnie -- McKinnie was a difference maker during Baltimore's Super Bowl run, but is unlikely to attract significant interest on the market. Going on age 34 with worrisome recent weight fluctuations, he might not even be viewed as a starter. The Ravens want him on an incentive-laden deal. McKinnie would be smart to accept GM Ozzie Newsome's offer.

Free Agent Forecast: Ravens on a two-year, $6 million contract.

50. Cornerback Cary Williams -- Ravens game watchers know Williams was regularly burned last season, and he overshot his hand by turning down GM Ozzie Newsome's three-year, $15 million offer. Expect Williams to sit on the market for a while, and ultimately accept a one-year, prove-it deal. At 6-foot-1, 190, he's a fit for new Jaguars coach Gus Bradley's secondary scheme.

Free Agent Forecast: Jaguars on a one-year, $2.5 million contract.

51. Defensive tackle Richard Seymour -- The Packers showed interest in Chris Canty late last month, indicating GM Ted Thompson is pursuing defensive end help. Seymour is going on age 34, but remains a stout run defender with some pocket-pushing ability when healthy. He will come relatively cheap and at least help paper over the hole created by Jerel Worthy's ACL tear.

Free Agent Forecast: Packers on a three-year, $7.5 million contract.

52. Strong safety Glover Quin -- A middling safety despite his lofty reputation during the free-agency buzz period, Quin is strong versus the run but struggles against the pass. He is unlikely to command William Moore money. The Texans still want Quin back desperately.

Free Agent Forecast: Texans on a five-year, $24 million contract.

53. Right tackle Eric Winston -- The Eagles were among the first teams to reach out to Winston following his March 6 release by Kansas City. Athletic and an impact run blocker on the move, he's a fit for Chip Kelly's up-tempo, zone-read offense. The addition of Winston would allow Philadelphia to kick right tackle Todd Herremans inside to guard, shoring up two weak spots.

Free Agent Forecast: Eagles on a four-year, $22.5 million contract.

54. Tight end Fred Davis -- The Browns might be a team to watch -- Cleveland tight ends coach Jon Embree was Davis' position coach for a year in D.C. -- but otherwise there has never been much doubt. Despite Saturday's re-signing of Logan Paulsen, the Redskins envision Davis as their starting tight end in 2013. Coming off an Achilles' tear, Davis might be smart to bet on himself and sign a one-year deal. If he plays well, he could get something more lucrative in 2014.

Free Agent Forecast: Redskins on a one-year, $3.5 million contract.

55. Running back Ahmad Bradshaw -- Tampa re-signed LeGarrette Blount on Saturday, but has designs on trading him and needs a better No. 2 back for Doug Martin than D.J. Ware. Bradshaw is familiar with Bucs OC Mike Sullivan's offense from their time together in New York.

Free Agent Forecast: Buccaneers on a two-year, $5 million contract.

56. Cornerback Mike Jenkins -- Bucs GM Mark Dominik was high on Jenkins coming out of South Florida in 2008, and Tampa Bay will need two cornerback starters after it releases Eric Wright. Jenkins will be an affordable No. 2 due to his injury history and scant 2012 role in Dallas.

Free Agent Forecast: Buccaneers on a four-year, $14 million contract.

57. Tight end James Casey -- Casey is a Swiss-army-knife offensive weapon, capable of playing heavy snaps at tight end, and even lead block in a pinch. He also can cover kickoffs and punts on special teams. Casey, 28, would be an upgrade on Delanie Walker as Vernon Davis' running mate at tight end. 49ers offensive and special teams coaches would love his versatility.

Free Agent Forecast: 49ers on a five-year, $15 million contract.

58. Guard Brandon Moore -- Moore turns 33 years old in June, but has gas left after grading out as Pro Football Focus' fourth-best guard in the league last season. Chicago can't afford Andy Levitre and Louis Vasquez, but could fit cheaper Moore under its salary cap.

Free Agent Forecast: Bears on a three-year, $9.5 million contract.

59. Outside linebacker Shaun Phillips -- Phillips is on his last legs at age 32, but remained productive in San Diego last season, ripping off 9.5 sacks and two forced fumbles across 16 starts. He could push underwhelming Sam Acho and O'Brien Schofield for rush linebacker snaps.

Free Agent Forecast: Cardinals on a two-year, $7.5 million contract.

60. Strong safety LaRon Landry -- Landry is coming off a highly productive season in New York -- 100 tackles, two picks, and four forced fumbles -- but his market isn't as hot as he hoped. Ex-Jets coordinator Mike Pettine is now running the defense in Buffalo, and needs a strong safety.

Free Agent Forecast: Bills on a five-year, $25 million contract.

61. Strong safety Pat Chung -- A year removed from seeming to emerge as one of the league's most promising young safeties, Chung's market has been slow to develop after nosediving in 2012. He lost his starting job to special teams-type Steve Gregory. Strong safety has been a problem area in San Diego since the Patriots signed away Rodney Harrison in 2003.

Free Agent Forecast: Chargers on a one-year, $3.25 million contract.

62. Safety Charles Woodson -- Woodson is going on 37, so he'll want to end his career on a playoff contender. The Broncos are in obvious win-now mode, as well, and need better safety play than Rahim Moore provided in 2012. Woodson is declining, but he can still force turnovers.

Free Agent Forecast: Broncos on a one-year, $4 million contract.

63. Fullback Jerome Felton -- Felton was the NFL's premier lead blocker in 2012, but he generated minimal interest during the free-agent negotiating period. The Vikings remain a run-first team and value him highly. Felton should exceed top Vonta Leach's three-year, $11 million deal.

Free Agent Forecast: Vikings on a three-year, $11.5 million contract.

64. Linebacker Dannell Ellerbe -- Ellerbe's agent may be overplaying his hand. Inside linebackers don't make big bucks in the NFL, but he's seeking $6 million per year. The Ravens are offering $5 million. Expect the sides to meet in the middle as Ellerbe replaces Ray Lewis.

Free Agent Forecast: Ravens on a five-year, $27.5 million contract.

65. Cornerback Jerraud Powers -- ESPN's Bill Williamson reported Saturday that the Chargers would likely have "deep talks" with Powers during the weekend negotiation window. Powers is only 25 and San Diego must replace both Antoine Cason and Quentin Jammer.

67. Linebacker Philip Wheeler -- Wheeler is the rare 4-3 linebacker who excels in all three phases; he can rush the passer, stuff the run, and cover tight ends in the passing game. St. Louis is annually in the market for outside linebackers and could plug a big hole with Wheeler.

Free Agent Forecast: Rams on a five-year, $17.5 million contract.

68. Cornerback E.J. Biggers -- Biggers was the one Tampa cornerback who came to play in 2012, grading out as a top-20 cover corner in Pro Football Focus' ratings. 25 years old, Biggers should be getting better. Tight with old Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris -- now the defensive backs coach in D.C. -- Biggers could be another cheap signing for the corner-needy Redskins.

Free Agent Forecast: Redskins on a two-year, $3.5 million contract.

69. Defensive end Matt Shaughnessy -- Shaughnessy, 26, enjoyed a seven-sack, two-forced fumble campaign in 2010 with Oakland, before back-to-back disappointing seasons. His Raiders position coach was current Rams defensive line boss Mike Waufle. St. Louis needs to replace free agent William Hayes, who backed up starters Chris Long and Robert Quinn last year.

Free Agent Forecast: Rams on a one-year, $1.5 million contract.

70. Defensive lineman Chris Canty -- The dots are connecting Canty to Carolina. The 30-year-old grew up in Charlotte, and played in New York when new Panthers GM David Gettleman was a Giants front-office exec. Canty is a run-stuffing defensive tackle, and Carolina needs that. Canty has also stated he's willing to give the cap-strapped Panthers a "hometown discount."

Free Agent Forecast: Panthers on a two-year, $4 million contract.

71. Linebacker Brad Jones -- New Chiefs GM John Dorsey helped draft Jones in Green Bay and watched him grow into a rising star at inside linebacker down the stretch last season. Kansas City is needy on the inside, next to Derrick Johnson. Jones would be a natural fit.

Free Agent Forecast: Chiefs on a three-year, $6 million contract.

72. Safety Chris Clemons -- First-year Cardinals defensive coordinator Todd Bowles was Clemons' position coach for three seasons in Miami. Arizona is targeting safeties with cover skills to replace Adrian Wilson, and 27-year-old Clemons would make a fine bookend for Kerry Rhodes.

Free Agent Forecast: Cardinals on a five-year, $17.5 million contract.

73. Cornerback Darius Butler -- The Seahawks are obviously set at outside corner with Richard Sherman manning the left and Brandon Browner on the right side, but they must upgrade on Marcus Trufant in the slot. Once seemingly a draft bust in New England, Butler resurrected his career as a slot corner with the Colts last year. He intercepted four passes in 11 games (4 starts).

Free Agent Forecast: Seahawks on a two-year, $5 million contract.

74. Cornerback Greg Toler -- Toler appeared to be an up-and-coming star under Arizona defensive coordinator Bill Davis in 2010, starting 13 games and recording 90 tackles to go with two interceptions. An ACL tear wiped out his 2011 campaign, but Toler bounced back strong in 11 appearances last season. Davis is now the Eagles' defensive coordinator, and Philly needs corner help. The Eagles also have enough salary cap room to make interested teams go away.

Free Agent Forecast: Eagles on a three-year, $13.5 million contract.

75. Free safety Ronde Barber -- Barber turns 38 in a month, but he can still cover center field and the slot on passing downs. He's a career Buccaneer, and GM Mark Dominik wants him back. Expect the sides to reunite on a deal similar to last offseason's one-year, $3 million pact.

Free Agent Forecast: Buccaneers on a one-year, $3 million contract.

76. Wide receiver Julian Edelman -- Slot receiver is a critical position in new Chiefs coach Andy Reid's offense; Jason Avant was his sure-handed slot man in Philly. Edelman, 27 in May, is looking for more playing time than the Patriots can offer. For a team with so many receiver questions other than Dwayne Bowe, Edelman could give them some stability as a No. 2 option.

Free Agent Forecast: Chiefs on a three-year, $6 million contract.

77. Outside linebacker Justin Durant -- A thumping run defender, Durant can play all three linebacker positions and holds his own in coverage as an every-down player. New Bears defensive coordinator Mel Tucker oversaw Durant's development for two seasons in Jacksonville. Durant could replace free agent Nick Roach and perhaps even push Brian Urlacher for snaps.

Free Agent Forecast: Bears on a two-year, $7.5 million contract.

78. Linebacker Michael Boley -- The Buccaneers will release Quincy Black and must replace him at strong-side linebacker. Boley played for Tampa defensive coordinator Bill Sheridan with the Giants in 2009. He knows the scheme and would be a sensible stopgap solution.

Free Agent Forecast: Buccaneers on a two-year, $4.5 million contract.

79. Defensive tackle Roy Miller -- The Bucs tried to re-sign Miller before talks broke off in February. Miller will reach the market, but is unlikely to be valued as highly as he thinks. Tampa is still his best possible landing spot. The Bucs are willing to start him at nose tackle, and Miller is a two-down player. He could try parlaying a one-year contract into something bigger next spring.

81. Tight end Brandon Myers -- Myers is a classic in-line tight end who can block and quietly caught the football as efficiently as any player at his position last year. The Browns are keen on former basketball player Jordan Cameron's potential, but might be better off pairing him with an experienced veteran. Myers is not much of a big-play threat, so he should be affordable.

Free Agent Forecast: Browns on a five-year, $14 million contract.

82. Inside linebacker Rey Maualuga -- Maualuga's 2012 tape was poor, but Cincinnati defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer still believes the 26-year-old has untapped potential. The Bengals want to re-sign Maualuga to play the strong side, with Vontaze Burfict in the middle.

Free Agent Forecast: Bengals on a one-year, $1.75 million contract.

83. Defensive tackle Vance Walker -- The Jaguars won't be big bidders in free agency, but new GM Dave Caldwell will pursue veterans who can help on the cheap. Walker, drafted by the Falcons when Caldwell was in Atlanta's front office, is a strong run defender just about to turn 26 years old. He'd help replace likely free-agent loss Terrance Knighton next to Tyson Alualu.

Free Agent Forecast: Jaguars on a three-year, $7 million contract.

84. Defensive end Mike DeVito -- DeVito's background with ex-Jets defensive coordinator Mike Pettine should attract him to at least one team besides the Jets. Pettine is now running the Bills' defense, and knows DeVito's strength as a one-dimensional run stopper. Buffalo annually gets trampled by the run. On a cheap multi-year deal, 28-year-old DeVito could help fix that.

Free Agent Forecast: Bills on a five-year, $12 million contract.

85. Defensive lineman Ricky Jean-Francois -- A Swiss-army-knife down lineman, Jean-Francois can play end and nose in the 3-4 and tackle in the 4-3. While not quite a special talent, Jean-Francois' versatility and age (26) make him attractive. The Niners do not expect him back.

Free Agent Forecast: Eagles on a three-year, $12 million contract.

86. Wide receiver Austin Collie -- Collie showed chemistry with Peyton Manning when both were healthy in Indy, and the 27-year-old is worth a one-season flier despite recoveries from several concussions and a ruptured patella tendon. Collie is a candidate to start the season on PUP. When back to 100 percent, he could be an upgrade on fellow free agent Brandon Stokley.

Free Agent Forecast: Broncos on a one-year, $1 million contract.

87. Cornerback D.J. Moore -- A feisty slot corner with playmaking ability, Moore fell out of favor in Chicago last season and won't be re-signed. He has ten interceptions over the last three seasons and is 26 years old. Former Bears defensive assistant Bob Babich is now running the defense in Jacksonville, under Gus Bradley. Jacksonville is hungry for defensive back takeaways.

Free Agent Forecast: Jaguars on a three-year, $5 million contract.

88. Running back Shonn Greene -- The Browns will play power-running offense under new coach Rob Chudzinski, who has a history of employing two-back committees. Greene also ran all over new Cleveland offensive coordinator Norv Turner's Chargers in the 2010 playoffs. He would make some sense as a cheap, 27-year-old bruising complement to Trent Richardson.

Free Agent Forecast: Browns on a two-year, $3 million contract.

89. Wide receiver Brandon Gibson -- Gibson struggles to separate and offers little after the catch, but he put some highlight-reel receptions on 2012 tape and is only 25. He generated lots of buzz on Sunday. Gibson could be overvalued by receiver-needy teams due to the paper-thin wideout market. Old Rams receivers coach Nolan Cromwell is now on Cleveland's staff.

Free Agent Forecast: Browns on a four-year, $16 million contract.

90. Cornerback Pacman Jones -- Pacman held his own in pass coverage last season, playing nickel back behind Leon Hall and Terence Newman. One of his few remaining fans is Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. Expect a reunion at just above league minimum.

Free Agent Forecast: Bengals on a one-year, $1 million contract.

91. Strong safety Adrian Wilson -- Purely an in-the-box safety at this stage of his career, 33-year-old Wilson was demoted out of Arizona's nickel package midway through last year. The Cardinals cut him on March 8. Wilson is only a year removed from what seemed like a rebirth in 2011, when he played quite well. Jets GM John Idzik was in division-rival Seattle's front office at the time. Wilson could be a short-term solution for the Jets' seemingly annual safety woes.

Free Agent Forecast: Jets on a two-year, $5 million contract.

92. Return specialist Josh Cribbs -- Cribbs is about to turn 30 and doesn't contribute on offense or defense, but he's a four-phase special teamer coming off one of his best seasons as a kickoff and punt returner. Niners special teams coordinator Brad Seely is Cribbs' old position coach in Cleveland. San Francisco has turned the page on incumbent return specialist Ted Ginn.

Free Agent Forecast: 49ers on a three-year, $6 million contract.

93. Guard Donald Thomas -- An effective seven-game spot starter in New England last year, the Pats can't afford Thomas with $61 million tied up in Logan Mankins and Dan Connolly. Thomas, 27, has earned a starting job. The Raiders are needy on the line, can afford one or two dips into free agency, and new line coach Tony Sparano knows Thomas from their days in Miami.

Free Agent Forecast: Raiders on a four-year, $11 million contract.

94. Cornerback Brice McCain -- One of the league's better slot cornerbacks in 2011, McCain inexplicably took a step back last season. The Texans know why better than any team and would like to give him one more run. The 26-year-old seems unlikely to break the bank.

Free Agent Forecast: Texans on a one-year, $1.75 million contract.

95. Safety Gerald Sensabaugh -- Sensabaugh was a mediocre starter at free safety in Rob Ryan's Dallas defense last year. He can also play strong safety. The Saints will likely make Roman Harper a cap casualty and must replace him on the cheap. Ryan now runs their defense.

Free Agent Forecast: Saints on a three-year, $7.5 million contract.

96. Tight end Delanie Walker -- Jeff Ireland struggles to evaluate skill-player talent more than any general manager in football. Walker is the NFL's most drop-prone tight end, but Ireland could be blinded by his Super Bowl berth and overpay Walker to help replace Anthony Fasano.

98. Running back Felix Jones -- Countless flubbed opportunities have exposed Jones as a draft bust, but it's not out of the realm of possibility that he could help a team on the cheap. Still just 25, speed back Jones can play in the pass game and averages 4.79 yards per career carry.

Free Agent Forecast: Bengals on a three-year, $6 million contract.

99. Running back Michael Turner -- New Jaguars GM Dave Caldwell worked in Atlanta's front office when Turner helped turn the Falcons' organization around. Turner is 31 and on his last legs, but he could be a serviceable insurance policy on Maurice Jones-Drew's surgically repaired foot.

Free Agent Forecast: Jaguars on a two-year, $3.5 million contract.

100. Linebacker Brian Urlacher -- GM Phil Emery obviously doesn't love the idea of re-signing Urlacher, but he's going to have to in order to appease the fan base and locker room. Expect the sides to settle on a one-year deal worth about half of Urlacher's $8 million 2012 pay.